Defence has actually validated that it will certainly utilize the Optus- X satellite introduced by SpaceX on Monday early morning Australian time.
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There had actually been some secret in web discussion forums and on space news outlets over the satellite considering that it was introduced.
“The satellite is an important element of Defence’s assured access to space-enabled communications,” a Defence representative stated in a declaration to iTnews.
“It will complement our future multi-orbit satellite capabilities to be delivered under project JP9102.”
An Optus representative stated it had “procured a spacecraft on behalf of another organisation.”
“We respect the privacy of our customers and do not provide comment on these matters.”
Defence has actually been utilizing Optus satellite solutions considering that 2003 and chose back in 2022 to expand its setup with the telco with to 2034.
As iTnews reported at the time, the Optus satellite that Defence has actually been utilizing – C1 – was readied to reach its end-of-life in 2027.
It’s comprehended that the Optus- X satellite launch connects to the 2022 arrangement and will certainly make it possible for solutions to proceed with to 2034.
Defence’s recommendation to JP9102, on the other hand, is to a “sovereign-controlled satellite communications system” that was to be constructed by Lockheed Martin.
The federal government just recently stopped the purchase with Lockheed Martin, stating it intended to alter instructions and purchase a multi-orbit capacity rather.
About $90 million was invested in the procedure prior to the switch.
